Lichen Planopilaris

What is Lichen Planopilaris?

Lichen Planopilaris is a rare inflammatory condition that causes patchy, progressive, permanent hair loss, mainly on the scalp. This condition usually affects young adult women, although it can also affect men. The cause of lichen planopilaris is unknown, though it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder in which white blood cells attack and destroy skin cells expressing unknown antigens.

Symptoms

Lichen planopilaris often presents itself as smooth white patches of scalp hair loss. At the edges of these patches, there may be scales and redness around each hair follicle. Commonly affected areas include the sides, front, and lower back of the scalp.

Common symptoms of lichen planopilaris include the following sensations in the scalp:

Itchiness

Pain

Tenderness

Discomfort

Burning

How is it Treated?

While there is no known cure for lichen planopilaris, there are treatment options that can help to slow progression of the disease and relieve symptoms. Treatment cannot recover hairs that have been lost.

There are a number of anti-inflammatory treatment options available from Jupiter Dermatology, including:

Corticosteroids

Topical tacrolimus

Hydroxychloroquine

Tetracycline

Acitretin

Methotrexate

Ciclosporin

Mycophenolate mofetil

Pioglitazone

Overall, treatment depends on how much of the scalp is affected and how quickly the condition progresses. A consultation with Dr. Mejia can help to determine which treatment option is right for you.

Individuals in the Jupiter, FL area can contact our office to schedule their lichen planopilaris appointment with Dr. Mejia today.

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Call us today at (561) 800-2881 or click the button below to request an appointment!